The Magi See the Star

"After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him." When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. When he had called together all the people's chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Christ was to be born. "In Bethlehem in Judea," they replied, "for this is what the prophet has written: 

'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will be the shepherd of my people Israel.' 

Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and take a careful search for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him."

After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. They they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route," (Matthew 2:1-12 NIV).

The story of the Magi only appears in the book of Matthew, yet it is part of the Christmas story that deserves to be heard. These wise men from a far were seeking a ruler, like themselves, only a baby who would become king of the Jews. Christ Jesus, born in Bethlehem in Judea, was the expected king. He fulfills the prophecy told long ago and King Herod was threatened. Soon after the Magi visit, Joseph took Mary and Jesus into Egypt to hide because they knew from a dream that Herod wanted to kill Jesus.

May you continue to hold the story of Jesus' birth in your heart. His story is just beginning. Amen.

  

The Shepherds

"And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests." When the angels had left them and gone into heaven the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told." ( Luke 2:8-20 NIV).

In all our thirty years of raising sheep, we never had a sighting of angels. They must have had some sort of calming effect on the sheep or the flock would have been frightened, as the shepherds were. I can't imagine such a scene but I believe it happened with my whole heart. The shepherds held an important role in the birth of our Savior. They spread the news about Jesus Christ being born. The prophets foretold the story and the story lives on.

The shepherds touched Mary's heart and confirmed to her that her son was God's Son. Who else would have a herd of sheep and shepherds arrive at the stable doorstep to proclaim that Christ the Lord had been born. What a sight! What a wonder! Christ our Savior is born!

May the wonder of Christ's birth remain in your heart today. Amen.

The Trip to Bethlehem

"In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to his own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn," (Luke 2:1-7 NIV).

Seventy miles. On a donkey. Nine months pregnant.

I can't imagine such a trip. Can you? It makes the whole story even more of a miracle: in addition to the baby conceived by the Holy Spirit. No wonder this story is so beloved. And all of it was in God's plan. Everything happened just as God intended. Even the trip through the countryside was as God planned. Jesus' birth in Bethlehem, in a humble rock cave, was foretold in Micah 5:2. 

This week as we prepare for our Christmas celebrations, may we remember the story of Jesus' birth and let the miracles of that day remain alive and foremost in our hearts and our minds.

The Messiah

"For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this." (Isaiah 9:6-7 NIV). 

The prophet Isaiah foretold the birth of Jesus and His life in the book of Isaiah. Much of his story is retold

to music in G.F. Handel's "The Messiah". It tells the life story of Jesus. My father sang with the annual production of "The Messiah" in Marshalltown for many years so the music is truly beloved by those who heard it year after year. I am one of those who loves the music and the story it tells. I have a CD of "The Messiah" and I sing along to myself the amazing music that is so familiar to me.

There are three parts to "The Messiah": Part I tells the story of Jesus' birth, Part II tells the story of the crucifixion, and Part III tells of Jesus' resurrection. It is an amazing work of art. It was written by Handel in 1741 in only 24 days and the oratorio was first performed on April 13, 1742, conducted by Handel himself. It is stunning that Handel could have composed this entire work in such a short period of time. He was truly inspired by God.

If you get the chance to hear "The Messiah" this Christmas season it will bless you in a special way. Christmas music of any kind sets the mood for the season.

Thank you, God, for giving us music to lift our spirits and to tell the stories of Christmas. Amen.

We Like Sheep

For more years than I can remember I have had sheep on my Christmas cards. For me, sheep are Christmas. Their role in that first Christmas was minor, still they were important enough to be mentioned by Luke. Sheep can be found throughout the Bible so it is not surprising that sheep are part of the Christmas story.

In case you didn't know, I love sheep. We have decorated our tree with sheep ornaments for many years, I guess since we had enough sheep to cover the tree. We collected sheep ornaments from all our vacations and trips. It is surprising how sheep turn up in the most unlikely places. We add a sheep nearly every year, whenever a new sheep ornament is found.

What makes sheep so relatable is that symbolically they represent us in the Bible. "You my sheep, the sheep of my pasture, are people, and I am your God, declares the Sovereign Lord," (Ezekiel 34:31 NIV). God proclaims it to be so.

Sheep are valuable to God. He cherishes them just as the shepherd values his flock. Every one is important. You are cherished and loved by God. The shepherd seeks the one lost sheep. Sheep are important. They are important to the Christmas story. 

When you see a sheep, may you always be reminded that you are God's and He is your God.

The Symbols of Christmas

The symbols of Christmas are all over your house and even down the street. They fill stores and churches and line the Main Streets of towns. There are silver bells, Christmas trees, nativity scenes, tinsel, bows and ribbons, packages wrapped in colorful paper, stars, angels, shepherd boys, Merry Christmases, snow globes, Christmas towels and mugs, and so much more. 

Signs of Christmas are all around us. The music is what makes me happiest. I can turn on holiday tunes and it cheers me right up. The familiar Christmas carols bring back memories of past Christmases and the beautiful candlelit sanctuary on Christmas Eve.

Christmas is a season that is often very hard for those who have lost loved ones. The loss of their presence during holiday traditions makes them almost unbearable. Many people change things up a bit so they can avoid those difficult moments.

Living with depression all these years makes me experience many different emotions at Christmas time. Sometimes it is very difficult for me. I miss my parents and also my in-laws so much at this time of year.  The traditions they made in their homes are now gone and that is sad. It is also sad when our immediate family isn't all together for Christmas. So I try to remember what our Savior said,

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives. 

Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

John 14:27 NIV

May you find peace during this Christmas season, no matter what you face this year. May God bless you with His constant love and peace. Amen.

Walking Toward Christmas

Have you ever tried walking on ice? When I was a kid I would go down to the creek in winter and slide around - standing for a while but inevitably end up falling down on the ice. Now that I'm older, there is a fear of falling on ice. This year especially with my newly repaired hand, I worry about falling on ice. Thankfully we have had a nice fall with no ice.

The other day I was intrigued by the geese walking on ice that's on the pond next door. The geese seemed to walk carefully but I didn't see one of them fall on the thin ice as they made their way across the pond.

Maybe we are like the geese now as we carefully approach the birth of Christ. We know the story well but we also know the end if the story. So how do we separate the two? It seems like we move toward the birth of Jesus by remembering how He came.

From a virgin girl, Jesus was conceived through the Holy Spirit for the purpose of saving mankind through His death. This is where our salvation begins - in a manger in a barn. Jesus came to poor, young parents because He was born to save us all - not just the rich and famous. He came to bring salvation to everyone. 

"For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you," (Isaiah 41:13 NIV).

So as we draw near to Christmas let us walk carefully through the holy story, cautious of the ending but remembering how the story of Jesus began.

The Announcement

Amazement. Shock. Surprise. Wonder. All these reactions must have been felt as Mary and Joseph received the news that Mary was conceived by the Holy Spirit to bear the Son of God. Mary was humbled and honored to be chosen as the mother of Jesus. She was the first person to receive Jesus. Mary was reminded that "nothing is impossible with God," (Luke 1:37). 

Joseph learned of the situation from an angel and at first he thought of divorcing Mary quietly, but the angel told him, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins," (Matthew 1:20-21 NIV).

"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel--which means, "God with us,"" (Matthew 1:23 NIV).

"I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said." (Luke 1:38 NIV).

Our walk toward Christmas is through the Advent season. We anticipate the arrival of Jesus and His birth in the lowly stable. 

May our hearts be made ready to receive the Lord. Amen.

December Thoughts

I'm feeling very old these days. My graduating class is working on our 50th reunion for next year. I can't believe we are this old. Where did the years go? For many there were years of schooling; then years of raising children, then teens, now adult children; years of working hard; then grandchildren; then finally retirement.

Life flies by even as we are thinking it'll be forever to retirement. All of a sudden we look back and we are here. We are left with books of photographs and computers full of pictures. So many memories gathered in our minds, yet memories begin to fade.

Arthritis is our constant companion. We have the prospect of new knees, hips and even knuckles. Now that we have time to do things, we may not feel like doing them. Life is fleeting. Every minute is valuable.

Even though our bodies are older and less mobile for playing football or getting down on the floor with grandchildren, our hearts and minds are full of cherished memories from a lifetime of living.

"Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you," (Isaiah 46:4 NIV). 

Thank you, God, for being our constant companion through all of life, and even now as we reluctantly enter the December of our years. Amen.

Thankful Reflections

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving as I hope all of you did also. My daughter-in-law Laura worked hard on Thanksgiving day, preparing a salad, making a pie and a dessert. Then on Friday, our gathering day, she was invaluable, making dressing and overseeing the turkey and lamb and vegetables. John got the potatoes ready. Everyone had plenty to eat and there were even a few noodles left over for Paige to take home.

Even after such a big meal the "kids" were ready to enjoy the nice weather and headed outdoors for a foot race down the street. The winner and loser were both a surprise. Brady won, narrowly beating out Graham and Payton, then Mark and Piper were right behind. John said he needed a kickstart to get going.

Then it was a game of football in the back yard. Nearly everyone of the men and kids participated. They had a great time. Some even came in worn out and in pain. All were breathing hard and smiling. Paige captured much of the action in photographs so all could be remembered.

Before the day ended Paige got family photos in the back yard. So wonderful! 

Jesus already knew what happened on Thanksgiving and every other day. He knows everything we ever did. And still He loves us! What a blessing we have in our Lord Jesus Christ.

"Then leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, "Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ? They came out of the town and made their way toward him," (John 4:28-30 NIV).

I'm so thankful for a day of having our whole family together. My heart is full of blessings.

Happy Thanksgiving!

“Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song,” (Psalm 95:1-2 NIV).

 

One of the hymns I think of during Thanksgiving is “We Plow the Fields, and Scatter” by Matthias Claudius, 1782. The words speak to the season and God’s constant presence and touch in our lives. Read the words or sing along with me.

 

“We plow the fields, and scatter The good seed in the land, but it is fed and watered By God’s almighty hand; He sends the snow in winter, The warmth to swell the grain, The breezes and the sunshine, And soft refreshing rain. All good gifts around us Are sent from heav’n above; Then thank the Lord, O thank the Lord For all His love.  He only is the Maker of all things near and far, He paints the wayside flower He lights the evening star; The winds and waves obey Him, By Him the birds are fed; Much more to us, His children, He gives our daily bread. All good gifts around us Are sent from heav’n above; Then thank the Lord, O thank the Lord For all His love.  We thank Thee then, O Father, For all things bright and good, The seed-time and the harvest, Our life, our health, our food; Accept the gifts we offer For all Thy love imparts, And what Thou most desirest, Our humble, thankful hearts. All good gifts around us Are sent from heav’n above; Then thank the Lord, O thank the Lord For all His love. Amen.”

 

May your Thanksgiving be filled with joy and love and may you make memories to cherish and warm your heart for years to come. Have a blessed Thanksgiving. 

Thanksgiving Preparation

One important part of the Thanksgiving meal is the planning. Here I am at 2 a.m. ready to do some planning. I was wide awake so what better time to get things done. As I plan for what we will eat on Friday (that is when everyone will gather this year) I have to remember I won't be doing the work because of my right hand healing.

First I need to check the weight of the turkey and the lamb (a Stewart family dinner tradition) and figure out how much baking time is needed for both. Then establish a schedule for cooking so that everything gets done in time for a noon dinner. 

Next I need to make a list of other things that need to be done including the meals for our Virginia family that arrives today. John already started planning those meals as we needed to buy groceries for the week.  The table will need to be set and an extension table will be needed for the 16 to sit around on Friday. 

"At mealtime Boaz said to her (Ruth), "Come over here. Have some bread and dip it in the wine vinegar." When she sat down with the harvesters, he offered her some roasted grain. She ate all she wanted and had some left over," (Ruth 2:14 NIV).

As we gather together on Friday our hearts will be full. Having the whole family together is such a huge blessing and not one I take for granted. I'm thankful for each and everyone who will join us. I pray for each of you to have a blessed Thanksgiving and enjoy the preparation and planning as well.

The Family Table

As Thanksgiving approaches one of the most important things that comes to mind is the family table. Our table is about 32 years old. We got it when we moved out of our mobile home into a house in State Center. It was a big event and I was so thrilled to have a dining room table that would expand for extended family dinners. 

There is nothing quite as wonderful as having the whole family gathered around the table for a meal. Our family has grown to include fiancés' children and a boyfriend of a granddaughter so we have to add another table to make room for the whole family and it is still wonderful, crowded but wonderful! When the whole family is together there are stories told and laughter shared. God is so good.

"She has prepared her meat and mixed her wine; she has also set her table," (Proverbs 9:2 NIV).

I'm so thankful that my daughters-in-law have offered to help make the meal this year. Laura is coming early from Virginia to make the preparations with John's help. My job will be to advise as needed and stay out of the way. Even if things aren't quite like usual, the table will be full of family and love.

"They set the tables, they spread the rugs, they eat, they drink!" (Isaiah 21:5 NIV).

May you have a blessed Thanksgiving around your table or someone else's. God bless.

Giving Thanks

It's the season of thankfulness and there is so much to be thankful for.  At different times in my life I have kept a gratefulness journal. Counting our blessings helps us lift our spirits and gives us a true and complete view of our reality. Let's start with the fall season we are in. Although in Iowa we have a week of cold (30's) we have had a beautiful autumn. The weather has been mild and so pleasant. The fall colors were incredibly beautiful, some said it was due to the dry weather.

Family is really the first on our list of thanksgiving. We are so thankful for the family we love so dear. I'm thankful for our two sons and their families. They have been through a lot this year, challenges and health concerns yet they have jobs and are continuing to provide for their families. We love our grandchildren and have enjoyed watching them grow and mature in many ways. We are so blessed to be grandparents.

Health is yet another thing to be thankful for. The health of all our family members is important to us. Thankful for good health and for less cases of severe COVID. Thankful for vaccines that help us stay well or lessen the severity of the flu and COVID. 

Faith is yet another thing to be thankful for. I give thanks for having faith in God because I can't imagine having to live life without faith.

"For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord," (Romans 8:38 NIV).

May God bless your day and fill it with thoughts of thankfulness.

Wherever I Go

No matter what you are going through, God is there with you. He has been with me through the two years I have struggled with my bad writing hand. And He will continue to be with me as my hand heals and physical therapy helps bring my new joints to life. I know it won’t be a fast process but it wasn’t a fast path that got me to this point.

 

I’m still dealing with a lot of can’ts . I can’t write with my hand yet. I can’t wash my hair with that hand nor shower without a plastic sleeve. I can’t eat with my right hand. I have to brush my teeth and comb my hair with my left hand. I have to use my left hand to curl my bangs. I can’t stir or cook or open my yogurt container. I can’t shave my legs with my left hand!

 

What are you discouraged about? If you face something that scares you or makes you sad, turn it over to Jesus and let Him handle it. Your future is in His hands, already planned to His satisfaction.

 

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go,” (Joshua 1:9 NIV).

 

Whatever you face, God is with you…in the hospital, in a nursing home, on the playing field or court, at work or in prayer, God is always there!

 

Thank you God for always listening to our feeble whispers and for helping us strive to be strong and courageous. Amen.

 

#850 gds

  

Not So Handy

Most of you know that I had right hand surgery in October so I haven’t been writing my blog for a few weeks. I’m back. I can now move my fingers enough to type two-handed so it will go faster than trying with just one hand. I also had Mohs surgery on my left hand last week that limited my use of that hand for a few days. It has been challenging, to say the least. It wouldn’t have been possible without my dedicated husband. John has been wonderful.

 

I have my right hand in a splint rather than a cast and the stitches were removed so I have steri-strips over the incisions. It was a 6-hour surgery so I still have some slight swelling made better by keeping it raised above my heart all night and as much as possible during the day. John created a device to hang my hand up. He used a ladder with a pvc pipe attached by drilling a hole through it and screwing it to the ladder. There is another hole drilled at the opposite end where he attached a hook for hanging the sling that was used in the hospital. It has worked well. 

 

The stitches in my left hand will come out on the 16^th. I can’t make a fist with that hand but my fingers are free to move now. I have learned to have patience and to accommodate inabilities with the abilities I have. 

 

“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to be in plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether living in plenty or want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength,” (Philippians 4:12-13 NIV). 

  

Today

 

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

Hebrews 13:8 NIV

 

Every morning I get up and check my calendar. I still use a paper calendar that I can write on. I like to read what today holds for me and I can also see the week or a month ahead all at once. I keep track of birthdays, anniversaries and appointments. That way I can see what cards I need to purchase or send in the mail.

 

But there is also something good about focusing just on today. It is wise to stay in the moment so we can experience the surprises God has in store for us. Once the moment is gone we can’t get it back. Today is the present time we can cherish for a fleeting moment. A smile, a greeting, a card in the mail, a phone call from a friend, an appropriate song on the radio…blessings that only happen today.

 

 

Lord, make me aware of the blessings you send to me today.

  

My Father's World

Have you noticed the moon this weekend? It is beautiful and full and seems bigger than sometimes. It is so bright that even as I sit here in my office at 6 a.m. I can see the moon out my west window shining beautifully. The stunning light reminds me of God's precious care that is constant. 

"Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation? Tell me, if you understand. Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? On what5 were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone--while the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy?" (Job 38:4-7 NIV).

This reminds me of a favorite hymn that is so appropriate anytime we are thinking of God's creation. "This Is My Father's World". 

"This is my Father's world, And to my listening ears All nature sings, and round me rings The music of the spheres. This is my Father's world: I rest me in the thought Of rocks and trees, of skies and seas--His hand the wonders wrought. This is my Father's world, The birds their carols raise, The morning light, the lily white, Declare their Maker's praise. This is my Father's world: He shines in all that's fair; In the rustling grass I hear Him pass, He speaks to me everywhere. This is my Father's world, O let me ne'er forget That though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the Ruler yet. This is my Father's world: Why should my heart be sad? The Lord is King: let the heavens ring! God reigns: let earth be glad!"

May we celebrate the beauty of fall in God's creation and lift our praise to Him on high. Amen.

 

Speaking Prayers

Prayer is an important part of my life. I pray throughout the day as things come to mind. I pray when I'm driving. I pray at bedtime. I know that I can turn to God in any moment and He will hear me. He hears my thoughts so even what I think about becomes a prayer. God is ever present. Prayer is talking to God with passion and concern and love. I'm so thankful that I can turn to God anytime and He will listen.

I am privileged to have a group of friends that I call my prayer warriors. I'm so thankful they pray for me and my concerns. Sometimes it is just too hard to pray for myself. I don't know why. I should be able to talk to God about myself but I can't. 

Many of you know I have been waiting for hand surgery for more than a year now and the surgery got delayed because I had a small spot on my hand that the doctor was concerned could become infected so it had to heal. It's been a month and a half that I've been cautious and concerned. The spot has healed. Another spot appeared and it has now healed so I'm waiting the next week and hoping nothing happens to my hand. It is hard protecting a hand you are so used to using all the time. I've been wearing a mitten to protect it and to remind myself not to use it.

"And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insights, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ--to the glory and praise of God," (Philippians 1:9-11 NIV).

You have been prayed for today. May you in turn pray for someone else. May God bless you and cover you in care. Amen.

He Has Done Great Things

God has done great things. Think about it. In your own life, how has God done something great for you? If you think about it long enough you will come up with at least one way God has done something great in your life. Probably many ways. 

Thinking back there are many examples I could share about how God has done something great in my life. The first one I think of is when our son Brady was about ten he became very sick. We took him to our local doctor and nothing he did seemed to help. We prayed for him. Finally, we got an appointment with Blank Children's Hospital but they had no explanation for why he was getting weaker and weaker. We were frustrated and very concerned so John got an appointment at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN and we drove him there. By the time we reached the hospital Brady was so weak and sick that John had to carry him in to the appointment. The woman doctor took one look at him and took a few tests and announced, this boy has pneumonia. They immediately started treating him for it and he responded quickly by getting better. Thank you, Jesus.

"The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy. Restore our fortunes, O Lord, like streams in the Negev. Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him," (Psalm 126:3-6 NIV).

This is the season of harvest. May those who harvest after a difficult year of lack of rain, reap a bounty that gives joy. God does great things for us. Amen.

Shifting Shadows

Antelope Canyon

Have you ever noticed how different things look in a shadow contrasted with the sunlight? Colors look muted and dull. Yet, the shadows add depth and dimension to a picture. I take a lot of pictures and always find it challenging to work with shadows. As the seasons change the shadows change, too. The sun gets farther from us in the winter and the shadows grow longer. It creates dimension and umbrage.

"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows," (James 1:17 NIV). 

When we visited Antelope Canyon in northern Arizona we were amazed at the sights as we walked through the canyon and noticed the light accentuating the rock formations below. The darkness of the shadows created areas of obscurity that were mysterious and almost scary as we walked through the canyon.

I appreciate God's light that makes all things clear and visible, but the shadows remind us that darkness can hold evil. May your day be bright and full of God's good gifts.

The Fox Story

Since we have lived in Ankeny for the past six years we have had numerous fox sightings. Only one at a time and several times just running through the neighborhood, across lawns and between houses. Once I was walking and a fox came out of a waste water drain, ran across the street and down another waste water drain. I could hardly believe my eyes.

Last summer we saw the fox in the park-like area of our neighbor's yard. It was shading itself by a big spruce tree and remained in the area for a half an hour. We watched it through our windows and took several pictures. 

Since then we have had several other sightings in our area making us think it lives nearby. Once the fox came through the iron fence and down the water drain in our other neighbor's yard. Just last week John saw the fox run between houses through our yard. I just didn't expect to see fox in town. We lived in the country for 25 years and I've seen more fox in town than I ever saw on the farm.

"Jesus replied, "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head," (Luke 9:58 NIV). 

Jesus didn't have a place to call home while he was traveling and teaching. Perhaps we also have a cost to pay for being followers of Christ. We have to be willing to make sacrifices and carry our own burdens as we walk with Christ. 

May your day be filled with sightings that remind you of our Creator God and His Son who had no earthly home.

Welcome Fall

It is nearly fall. Tomorrow is officially the start of autumn but the weather began two days early in Iowa. Cooler temperatures arrived with a northern wind and today it is expected to reach a high of only 60 degrees. So different than our 95 degrees on Tuesday, setting a new record high for Iowa. Change is in the air.

Cooler weather brings with it so many changes. There will be changing colors of yellows, rust, browns, reds, and oranges all around. Bright mums are appearing everywhere and add spots of color at door steps and porches. On the drive to Marshalltown this week I saw the first combine in a bean field. The brown beans created a puff of dust as the huge machine seemed to eat up the harvest. Soon the fields will be full of corn pickers and wagons, hayracks and semi trucks ready to receive the bounty. 

Displays of scarecrows and stalks of corn, gourds and pumpkins, Indian corn and straw bales appear in yards, celebrating the change of seasons. Soon the leaves will change colors and begin to fall drifting to the ground, piling up ready to be raked or jumped into by children. Eventually there will be frost on the pumpkins and a harvest moon to light up the night sky. What a wonderful time of year!

"He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy," (Acts 14:17 NIV).

May God bless you with a wonderful fall season to enjoy.

Reading Through Life

 I love to read. It hasn't always been that way for me. I didn't read much in high school except what was required reading. I guess I was busy with other things and I hadn't gotten the reading bug yet. As a young adult I read mostly non-fiction books and the Bible. 

Next, I went through a time where all I read were books about writing because that was my passion. I wanted to become a better writer so I read all the books I could find about writing. Then I went back to school and all I read were textbooks and assigned reading and the Bible.

I have a row and a half of Bibles in my bookcase. I've read many different versions of the Bible, going through the Bible in a little more than a year each time. My current favorite is the Life Application Study Bible New International Version. It has been my study Bible for several years and I have read through it several times. I always dislike starting a new Bible and leaving an old one because I have the old one marked up with favorite verses and comments I've written when I have studied it.

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work," (2 Timothy 3:16, 17 NIV).

There is a purpose to reading that differs with each book. I am reading fiction now for fun. Most are historical fiction or Christian fiction but I also enjoy Kristin Hannah's books. Reading is a great way to learn and to enjoy. Read a book today and see where it takes you.

A Safeguard for Life

This summer I had the delightful experience of renewing my driver's license. The Iowa DOT DMV is notorious for long waits. This year I found out ahead that I needed to call for an appointment. Actually I had to schedule it online. Luckily I gave myself lots of time because the appointments were booked months ahead. I got my appointment time and was warned not to arrive more than 15 minutes early.

I arrived at the appropriate time and got my number that I would be called. The signs that call you list numbers in random order so you never know if they are getting close to your number. It seems all by chance. I took a seat along with a wide variety of people all waiting for testing or renewals. The day I was there their computers were down for the electronic tests and they had to do paper tests.

My appointment time came and went and I waited another hour for my number to come up. They warn you that if you are more than five minutes late your appointment is cancelled. However the reverse isn't the case. Finally my number showed up and they called my turn. The clerk I received apologized for my wait which surprised me.

The process went smoothly and I gave my best toothless smile for the picture which is always terrible for me. Then you pay for your driver's license and get a paper copy to take with you and wait for ten days or two weeks for the real driver's license to arrive in the mail.

"Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again and it is a safeguard for you," (Philippians 3:1 NIV). 

Thank you Lord for giving us the Bible to safeguard our lives and to keep our actions on the straight and narrow road. Even when our day goes strangely, You are there with us, keeping watch. Amen.

Together in Faith

I have a group of friends that I've been meeting with for nearly forty years. We meet for Bible study once a month now but it used to be once a week. They are my prayer team, my emotional support, my sense of reason, my Bible question go to group, and my encouragers. They have watched me grow from an infant Christian into a more mature believer; they are the reason I have grown in faith.

I also have a church that I've been attending for two years, but I've made connections through a weekly Bible study there and I continue to attend weekly services on Sundays. Meeting together is important.

"Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching," (Hebrews 10:25 NIV). 

I also have a church family where I grew up in and attended most of my lifetime. I still consider it my church home, though I haven't been there in several years.  I pray for them when I know of a concern and I care deeply about them. 

Having other believers to share life with is important to me and to all Christians as scripture says. We need each other in this walk of faith. Even my water aerobic friends and WW friends who have faith in their lives have become friends because of their faith. I'm drawn to others who have faith that we can share.

Thank you, God, for friends in faith who encourage me. Give them an extra heap of blessings this week. Amen.

Finding Hope

Sometimes our best layed plans go backwards. I realized as I was leaving for a two- day stay at my sister’s that my blog needed to be written while I was gone. Oops, just a minor problem so I packed up my computer and planned to get up early to write it. But then I thought about it some more and decided it would be better to write it tonight and post it in the morning.

 

So I started to get my computer set up and I couldn’t remember where to find Wi Fi setup. An hour later I finally figured it out but then I couldn’t get the password to work. So I’m writing this in Word so I can paste it into my blog format whenever I figure out the password issue.

 

Hope. That’s what I need now. Hope. I love hope. It is so reassuring to have hope. It lightens your load and makes the day seem brighter. Hope gives you reason to get up in the morning. Hope is uplifting and promising. Hope is cause for celebration. 

 

 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit,” (Romans 15:13 NIV).

 

The Holy Spirit is filled with hope. It can guide us to answers and understanding. Even when it is a time of grief or sadness. It shows us the way to truth and reason. May your heart be overflowing with hope, no matter how rough the day may be.

P.S. I put my computer near my brother-in-law's computer and it connected this morning! WhooHoo! Hope is good!

 

  

Love Endures Forever

"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever." (Psalm 136:1 NIV).

This scripture begins to tell a story of some of what God has done followed by the reminder that God's love endures forever. No matter what has happened in you life, remember that "His love endures forever."

"Give thanks to the God of gods. His love endures forever." (Psalm 136:2 NIV).

Here the author proclaims that God is over all other gods. He alone is God! And "His love endures forever."

"Give thanks to the Lord of lords: His love endures forever," (Psalm 136:3 NIV).

Our God is above all other lords, He is the Lord of lords. He rules; He reigns; He is Majesty over all and "His love endures forever."

..."Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever," (Psalm 136:26 NIV).

Here the author of this Psalm reminds us to give thanks to God who is the God of heaven. He is God over heaven and earth and seas and mountains and the skies and everything in the heavens. And "His love endures forever."

The repetition of the phrase "His love endures forever," is intended to magnify the importance of remembering it. God's love will never cease being; "His love endures forever!"

May our hearts focus on thanking the Lord God for His mercy, His goodness, His kindness and His faithfulness. And remember "His love endures forever". Amen.

 

Learning Patience

Today isn't the day I was planning for. My hand surgery was supposed to be today but because of a tiny sore the surgery was postponed until the spot heals. I was feeling rather down yesterday after I found out. But, I realize now it is the best thing and I must be patient while it heals.

"We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us," (Romans 5:3-4 NIV) 

The best plans can be changed in the most common ways and it is for good, even if it doesn't feel that way at first. This situation causes me to be patient. I'm learning to wait and growing in my patience. There are lots of scriptures on patience. It must be a commonly needed skill that humans need to learn. James, Jesus' brother wrote another scripture about patience.

"Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord's coming is near," (James 5:7-8 NIV).

I will wait patiently for my spot to heal, knowing that God has the best plan for me. Time will tell how long I must wait for another appointment for surgery. God is good and His timing is best.

What are you waiting patiently for? God will see you through.

Count Your Blessings

There is something about receiving a bag full of green tomatoes that makes us smile. Our neighbor knows that we like fried green tomatoes so he picked some from his beautiful tomato plants and shared them with us. Even though he originally thought green tomatoes were poisonous. He also shares his red tomatoes with us. His bounty is great and he is happy to share. We receive most gratefully.

A friend of mine from water aerobics shared zucchini and cucumbers with us also. It was nice to be able to make zucchini bread and chocolate zucchini cake like I used to when we had a garden on the farm. We were blessed. 

"Many, O Lord my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare," (Psalm 40:5 NIV).

"When upon life's billows you are tempest-tossed, When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost, Count your many blessings name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord has done. Count your blessings-name them one by one; Count your blessings-see what God has done; Count your blessings-name them one by one; Count your many blessings-see what God has done."

"Are you ever burdened with a load of care? Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear? Count your many blessings-every doubt will fly, And you will be singing as the days go by.  Count your blessings-name them one by one; Count your blessings-see what God has done; Count your blessings-name them one by one; Count your many blessings-see what God has done." Written by Johnson Oatman, Jr. 1897 and Edwin O. Excell, 1897.

May your day be surprised by unexpected blessings! "Count your many blessings, name them one by one."

School Days

"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these," (Luke 18:16 NIV). 

I love looking through Facebook this time of year. There is nothing as special as the back to school First Day pictures.The children are dressed in their best with combed hair and smiles. I love the boards they hold up, telling about their favorites and what they want to be some day. I had no idea that my youngest granddaughter wanted to be an engineer but it sounds perfect for her. What fun to see how they change or stay the same!

I can't believe another granddaughter entered her senior year of high school. A year of dreams come true or changing dreams, who knows? How is it that time flies by so fast when you get old? Every year that goes by is faster than the one before, it seems.

Life is the strangest thing. It teaches us so much through our experiences and education, of course. Opportunities unfold into our hands and we grow and learn. Even when we are old we can learn new things. I learn something new almost every day, thanks especially to my husband.

"I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it," (Luke 18:17 NIV).

What first can you begin this week? Give it a try and let me know how God blesses you.

In Jesus' Name

I love contemporary Christian music. I have the radio on in our car and often in our home when I'm cooking or cleaning. It helps me stay connected to God and it fills me with hope. Some songs fill me with an attitude of prayer. There is a fairly new song by Katy Nichole, "In Jesus Name (God Of Possible)", that is such a good song of prayer, I want to share it with you.

"In Jesus Name (God Of Possible)" by Katy Nichole

"I speak the name of Jesus over you, In your hurting, in your sorrow, I will ask my God to move, I speak the name 'cause it's all that I can do, In desperation, I'll seek Heaven, And pray this for you.

"I pray for your healing, That circumstances would change, I pray that the fear inside would flee in Jesus name, I pray that a breakthrough would happen today, I pray miracles over your life in Jesus name, in Jesus name. 

"I speak the name of all authority, Declaring blessings, every promise, He is faithful to keep, I speak the name no grave could ever hold, He is greater, He is stronger, He's the God of possible.

"I pray for your healing, That circumstances would change, I pray that the fear inside would flee in Jesus name, I pray that a breakthrough would happen today, I pray miracles over your life in Jesus name, in Jesus name. 

"Come believe it, Come receive it, Oh, the power of His Spirit is now forever yours, Come believe it, Come receive it, In the mighty name of Jesus, all things are possible.

"I pray for your healing, That circumstances will change, I pray that the fear inside will flee in Jesus name, I pray that a breakthrough, Would happen today, I pray miracles over your life in Jesus name, I pray for revival, For restoration of faith, I pray that the dead will come alive in Jesus name, In Jesus name."

"In the day of my trouble I will call to you, for you will answer me," (Psalm 86:7 NIV).

I love the prayer that this song is and I sing it over and over in my mind. I hope you can hear it soon, also. May it lift you up in prayer and express what your heart longs to say. Have a blessed day.

Temptations

The Iowa State Fair is one of the most temptation-filled places I know. At least for those of us who are watching what we eat. The air is filled with smells that draw us in, increasing our temptation. The fragrance of mini donuts freshly made, baked cinnamon rolls, fried corn dogs, grilled lamb burgers, pork chops on a stick, freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, beef sundaes, turkey legs, funnel cakes, fried cheese curds, and about anything you can imagine deep-fried on a stick or grilled.

It is easy enough to avoid the food temptations by keeping walking past the booths and seeking out something healthy. I turn to the upstairs of the horticulture building where we can find fresh salads and fresh veggies on a stick, or even down below the egg council is handing out free hard-boiled eggs. The grilled choices are good compared to the deep-fat fried options.

"When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed," (James 1:13-14 NIV).

There are plenty of evil food desires at the State Fair but God promises help for the weak-spine among us. But they can also be an indulgence, which can be okay, too.

"And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it," (1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV).

Thank you, God, for being there for us whenever we need you. 

Saying Goodbye

It was a beautiful September Sunday. My dear friend and I and her mother drove to Minneapolis for a work convention. Her brother was picking up his mother for a visit. When we arrived and checked in at the desk there was a message waiting for me. Family emergency: call home. "Your mother is dying come home now!"

My mother had congestive heart failure and was on oxygen for some time before this. Two of my sisters had prepared dinner for mom and dad. I was told that Mama had gone to her bed for rest. Then suddenly she came out to the kitchen and announced she needed to go to the hospital.

I gathered my bag and headed to the airport in the hotel's van to get a rental car that John had arranged. I was scared as I didn't drive in big cities. Somehow I would get out of town. I got directions from the fellow at the car rental place. I left in a strange car, in a strange city, to drive the three hours back to Marshalltown. 

I got on the interstate and promptly missed my exit so I had to back track. Once I did that I calmed down a little and began to think about what was ahead. Would I make it in time? Was mother really dying? How could that be? I turned on a Christian radio station and each song seemed meant for me. I felt God's presence with me as I cried and calmed and cried my way to the hospital.

I arrived at the hospital and John came running to the car, then whisked me to the ICU where mama was lying surrounded by family. I got to say my goodbyes which I believe she heard. Then in a short time she passed away.

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit," (Romans 15:13 NIV). 

Love the Lord

I love the words of this scripture. It shows us how intimately we are to be connected to our God.

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframe of your houses and on your gates," (Deuteronomy 6:5-9 NIV). 

I think the first verse is one of the first verses I memorized as a youth. "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." What does that mean for each of us? To love God with all my heart and soul and strength is to love God with all my being! To be wholly devoted to God, to be dedicated to God without exception, and to love exceedingly, totally, all in, and completely.

Love God with everything we have, who we are, and who we should be. Loving God is a life style. Something that consumes you and exudes in every action, every thought and every word.

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." Amen.

Work of Our Hands

"May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us--yes, establish the work of our hands," (Psalm 90:17 NIV). 

I have learned a lot about using hands in the past year and a half, since I started trying to find answers to the mess my right hand is in. Wearing three, now four different splints I have had very limited use of my hand to somewhat complete use of the fingers. I've discovered how important my hands are to getting things done.

We use our hands for typing, sewing, cooking and stirring, buttoning buttons, buckling belts, combing hair, washing hair, blowing our nose, driving a car, dusting, watering plants, taking pills, opening door knobs, washing windows, opening cans and jars, reading a book, turning on a light switch, carrying groceries, pushing a grocery cart, opening a vegetable bag, peeling potatoes, cutting up vegetables, cutting meat, picking flowers, slicing tomatoes, making the bed, washing hands... that is enough examples. You get the idea.

 Our hands are important accessories to our bodies and are often taken for granted - until you don't have use of them. I certainly appreciate my hands more than I used to. 

Thank you God for our hands. Help us to use them for good works with Your favor. Amen.

Appreciating the Now

Have you ever noticed how important things are to you once they are gone. I've been reading a book about a couple who moved to an acreage to start a sustainable garden. It brought back memories of living on our acreage. I have grown homesick for our 18 acre "farm". I miss the sheep of course, though I have a houseful of sheep statures and pictures, I miss seeing and hearing the live sheep every day. I miss watching them graze through the pastures and come running, baaing, when shepherd John headed down to the shed at feeding time.

Most of all, I've realized how much I miss having a garden and country space. I miss the garden produce we used to have and freeze for the winter. I love the act of digging in the soil and watching things grow. I love the bursting forth of the first plants; the amazing life that comes from the seeds. It reminds me of God's touch on everything. Nature always brings me closer to God. Maybe that's what I miss the most.

Though I miss all those things from our former life, I realize also that I'm not the same person I was six years ago. My body is older and less able to handle the back breaking work the acreage involved. I used to spend hours weeding the garden and the flower beds, that's something my back wouldn't take so well. 

"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven," (Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV).

There are seasons of life that are meant for different things, so I must accept that this is a time for retirement. 

August Faith

Welcome to August in Iowa. It's a new month starting with a week of hot temperatures and dry conditions. Continuing what July offered us. August is known to bring hot weather, bountiful garden harvests, sweet corn, the Iowa State Fair, tall field corn, and the beginning of school. 

Youth have their animals in prime condition following the county fairs, in preparation for the State Fair. The daily tasks of grooming, walking and feeding fill their days. Gardeners spend time watering their vegetables since Mother Nature isn't helping out with rain. It is the peak harvesting time for many vegetables: sweet corn, green beans, and tomatoes are a few top producers. Kitchens are filled with sanitized canning jars or freezer bags and all the accompanying supplies to preserve excess vegetables for the winter.

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see," (Hebrews 11:1 NIV).

August is like faith. We can be assured and anticipate what August holds for us, with a few surprises like the Derecho that happen. Faith can be described as sure and certain. When we have faith we trust in God and in what God promises. Even though we can't see all God's promises yet, we can be sure and certain of those promises because of who God is. That's faith.

May your faith be strong today and your August be grand.

Belonging

There is a small rabbit that has been eating off all my mini hollyhocks in the flower bed in the back yard. Nearly every time John waters the tomato plants, high in the elevated planter, the rabbit bounds out of the flower bed and scampers across the lawn.The rabbit makes his rounds in the neighborhood causing one neighbor to threaten it with his bow and arrow. The rabbit chooses only my flowers as his tasty treats, passing on the neighbors' flowers and vegetable garden.

The neighbor with the bow and arrow offered us instead, a live trap to catch the rabbit. It has been sitting empty for several days now with no luck. The rabbit avoids the trap and continues to run around chewing off my flowers, leaving just naked stalks. The rabbit doesn't belong in my flower bed. Unlike the butterflies that do belong on my butterfly bush. (John captured this picture the other day). 

"I tell you the truth, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to Christ will certainly not lose his reward," (Mark 9:41 NIV). 

Jesus is telling John that those who belong to Christ Jesus will take care of others, not harm them or pass them by. Giving others a cup of water is like giving an offering to God. We belong with Christ. He belongs with us. 

Unlike the rabbit that doesn't belong in our flower bed.

May you feel like you belong today. And show others how much you care, passing on the love of Jesus as you do. That is belonging.

Humanity's Best

The positive thing about visiting Mayo is seeing people take care of other people. There were family taking care of family. A wife feeding her husband who can't feed himself, a child being carried by his father, a husband pushing his wife in a wheel chair or the elderly walking with pride because their children are there guiding them to the next appointment. Sometimes it is a Mayo staff person taking the time to sit with a person who has no one to talk to. Or the stranger who offers to get coffee for the person who has trouble moving about. It is the comfort of witnessing what is best in humanity.

Much of the time is spent waiting. Waiting for test or consultations, for results, for the next appointment. There is time to think about: the unknowns, the possibilities, the what-ifs, the sure things. In spite of the circumstances for being at Mayo, there are still some smiles and chuckles. People come equipped with folders of medical records and of course their phones. In orthopedics you see every kind of cast, wrap, boot and splint. It all makes my problem seem inconsequential. 

It is a wonderful place to find answers. It also is a place that gets things done, coordinating appointments between care providers and individuals. Running like clockwork. 

"Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus," (Acts 4:30 NIV). 

My hand needs surgery to correct the tendons and the ulnar drift in the fingers. So that's what I'll be planning for in the next few months. 

May you notice the good of humanity all around you today. Blessings.

Seek First His Kingdom

What trials are you facing today? Some days seem more difficult than others. And some days we are better able to handle those challenges than others. So where are you today?

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these tings will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own," (Matthew 6:33-34 NIV). 

The Word reminds us to seek God's Kingdom and His righteousness. In other words we are to turn to God for our help and answers before turning elsewhere. My study Bible says to fill our thoughts with God's desires, to take His character for our pattern and to serve and obey Him in everything.

There are so many things that fight for our attention: people, objects, goals and desires all want top priority in our lives. But it is God who deserves the first place in our lives. We must choose to place Him in the top slot of every area of our lives.

What challenges are you facing today? Turn it over to God and He will help you.

Living Water

My father was able to purchase a portion of his grandfather's farm in Marshall County Iowa. He was very excited to own land that had been in his family for generations. Another portion of the land was deeded to the County for use as a nature preserve  called the Arney Bend Wildlife Area. It includes land that is along a bend in the Iowa River where the Arney family settlers came and built their home and farm in the 1800's. 

There is a natural pond on the property and an artesian well that my father was proud of. An artesian well is where the water rises to the surface by internal hydrostatic pressure. There was a water pipe that had been installed and the water always poured out of it. It was cool. 

Fortunately, after my father died, my nephew purchased the land so it is still owned by Arney heirs. The buildings are all gone now but the land remains as a testament to the Arney name.

"Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him,"" (John 7:37-38 NIV).

Here Jesus uses the term "living water" to mean the Holy Spirit. He gives us the Holy Spirit to guide us.

May the Holy Spirit guide you today and bless you.

Be an Encourager

The main purpose for writing this blog is to encourage others. Sometimes I hit the mark and others not so much but it still is my goal to encourage. I have had times when I needed encouragement and others have done or said something that has lifted me up. I was very shy when I was growing up and I needed lots of encouragement to even speak up. I had a very low self esteem so I needed the encouragement I received from my Bible study group. My life has been made better because of the encouragers who have helped me along the way. That's what I try to do in this blog.

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing,"                         (1 Thessalonians 5:11 NIV).

My Life Application Study Bible lists a checklist of ways to encourage others. It suggests pointing out a quality you appreciate in them. Say thank you to leader for their efforts. Cooperate with leaders. Withhold critical comments. Offer to work together to draw someone into your project. Pray for those who seem weak in faith. Do not seek revenge. Be joyful. Always count on God's power to strengthen you.

Lift up your face to God on this beautiful summer day. Rejoice in the life you have to live today. Remember to reach out to the bashful or quiet ones and help them enter your circle of friends. Make this a better day by encouraging someone to be happy. 

Today is my daddy's heavenly birthday and tomorrow is my mother's heavenly birthday. I miss them both. They were true encouragers in their lives. I hope to be like them.

God bless you as you encourage others this week.

Family Reunions

 On Saturday the heirs of Corwin and Clara Springer gathered together for a fun day at my niece's acreage. It was wonderful to spend time with family. I love catching up on others and hearing stories that are shared. It is so neat to see the children growing up and see cousins interacting with each other. It is just so good to reconnect with families we don't see very often.

One sad note was that the first sister of four wasn't able to come. It was the first time we were missing a sister. She is suffering serious side effects from a bad fall. We missed her terribly and our usual four sister photo will have to wait till the next time we are together.

Families change and grow. Time goes by too quickly as we age. We lose track of time and years fly by. It is important to stay connected and enjoy each other while we have the chance.

"Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need. But if a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleating to God," (1 Timothy 5:3-4 NIV).

Thank you, Father, for making families. 

Sharing the Tasks

For more than two years now, John and I have been sharing the kitchen. Back when our son was living with us for awhile I was tired of coming up with ideas for meals. John volunteered to fix our evening meals and I would fix our lunches. I got the easy shift because I usually prepare salads for us. 

It has been rather freeing to give over 'my' kitchen to someone else. John tries to fit in fish several times a week for me. He also likes to see how fast he can prepare a meal. Especially when he warms up leftovers, his time is really fast. He also has taken over the grilling and that is a big relief to me.

The hardest part for me is staying out of the kitchen when John is preparing a meal. He tends to decide what we are going to have five minutes before he prepares it. I used to get things out a day ahead so it could thaw. He uses the microwave to thaw frozen food. Different styles lead to the same finished meal.

Back in the early church people shared everything.

"All the believers were together, and had everything in common," (Acts 2:44 NIV).

"All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had," (Acts 4:32 NIV).

We have become a sharing home and I am the lucky one in this arrangement. I will appreciate John's help for as long as it lasts because it is so hard to come up with meal ideas. John has become an excellent cook and I'm so thankful for his sharing the tasks of preparing the meals.

Freedoms

One July 4th our well-to-do neighbor put on a firework show for his family and friends. He was kind enough to inform those in the area to plan on enjoying the fireworks from our decks or lawns. It was a beautiful night so we invited our grandchildren to come. We were amazed to have the explosions of light and color right over our heads. We "ooh"ed and "awe"ed at the wonderful fireworks display. We were very thankful to our neighbor for his kindness.

Independence Day is a time to celebrate the freedoms we are fortunate enough to have in America. We have the freedom to worship, to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, freedom of speech, and so much more. Fireworks are a tradition for July 4th. Each 'boom' and light explosion can represent those who fought for our freedoms.

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord," (Psalm 33:12 NIV).

Our National Anthem was officially proclaimed in 1931 as "The Star Spangled Banner" written as a poem by Francis Scott Key in 1814.

"Oh say can you see, by the dawn's early light what so proudly we hail'd at the twilight's last gleaming? Whose broad stripes and bright stars, thro' the perilous fight, O'er the ramparts we watch'd, were gallantly streaming? And the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air, Gave proof thro' the night that our flag was still there. O say, does that star-spangled, banner yet wave o'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?"

Thank you to all who have served to protect our freedoms. May you enjoy your freedoms today. God bless you.

Words

Have you ever said something you regret? Do your words ever come out all wrong? I tend to put my foot in my mouth plenty often. What is so hard about talking? Sometimes my mouth gets in the way of my thoughts. 

Fortunately I write more words than I talk, usually. Writing allows me to edit before I send my text, email, or letter. Yes, I still write letters and send snail mail. I know it is unusual these days to do things the slow way but I think people like to get mail other than bills. Writing also allows me the chance to proofread and correct what I have written.

Thankfully, when we pray it is okay to make mistakes and change what we say to God. He knows what we are thinking anyway so He understands where we are coming from. He knows what is in our hearts. Every thought and word that comes from us reflects on who we are. David wrote a prayer that I need to say every day:

"Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer," (Psalm 19:14 NIV).

May your words be acceptable to God today.

Our Strong Tower

I don't remember being scared by anything except a tornado, at least while I was an adult. We lived in a mobile home during the first 15 years of our marriage and I was constantly nervous about tornados or wind storms. We would make our way to my parents' house if we had warnings that were serious. Fortunately we never had an issue. 

We have gone to the basement several times since we lived in a house. Once was during the deratio here in Ankeny. Another storm hit us during the night and we lost nearly a hundred trees on our acreage but had no damage to our house. Storms can be scary. One thing I've always counted on is God. He has always been there for me when I was frightened. 

"The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe," (Proverbs 18:10 NIV). 

When I was a pre teen we had a bad storm hit our farm near State Center. Dad and I rode the flying linoleum after a window in the basement blew out, creating the exciting ride. We lost a barn and had damage to other out buildings and many trees that time. I was afraid but I felt safe with my dad there and my Heavenly Father.

I feel blessed that I've never had to fear for my life. I think of those in the Ukraine who face death nearly every day and I pray that they will turn to their strong tower, Jesus, and run to Him for safety. 

May you always feel safe and protected by our Lord. Amen.

Summertime

It is summertime! The signs are all here: the grass is green, the leaves on the trees are out, the flowers are blooming, the days are longer, the sun is full of heat, the birds are singing, and the babies born this spring are now bigger and feeling independent, as long as mom is nearby.

"Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near," (Matthew 24:32 NIV). 

I love summertime. I need the sunshine to ward off my depression. I enjoy the heat and would love to sit and soak it up all day long, but my pale skin doesn't like the sun. After years of enjoying the sun I now have to worry about skin cancer. I've already had several pre-cancerous spots removed so I'm using sunscreen and caution about being in the sun now. Something I should have been smarter about much sooner.

Summer brings reunions and weddings, camps and road trips, vacations and picnics. Summer is bicycle riding, working in the garden, making hay, picking flowers, eating on the patio or deck, long walks, swimming, and of course, ice cream.

Get out and enjoy this beautiful day anyway you choose. 

Momentary Troubles

Lately I've been realizing just how old I am getting to be. I'm not afraid of dying but I do think about how I might die and that sometimes concerns me. I think most everyone would choose to die in their sleep. Just go to sleep and never wake up seems like a pleasant way to go. But, only God knows the plan and the time this will happen. 

It is a good thing that we don't know when we will die or we would try to get everything done and ready. Although perhaps it is better that we do have some things done. We do need to have a will in place and perhaps a living will also so things we desire to control will happen. 

As we age we face possible illnesses and trials due to our physical or mental state. I'm facing trials with my right hand. Rheumatoid arthritis has crippled my hand. It limits what I can do with it and makes other things difficult. I feel fortunate that only one hand is involved, not both. And the rest of my body is okay except it is getting older. 

"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all," (2 Corinthians 4:16-17 NIV).

There is a reason for our suffering and trials. They teach us to depend on Christ Jesus and remember His suffering for us. They keep us from becoming prideful. They keep us looking beyond this life and toward our eternal one. They show our faith to others. And our sufferings provide an opportunity for God to use His power. 

Lord, be with us this day. Let us use this day of our life to please You. Amen.

Restoration

I was a terrible teenager. I argued with my mother about everything. I feel ashamed even now. I feel ashamed sharing this with you. Fortunately, after I was married and out of the house. Our relationship began to mend and we became very close. Thanks to my mother being forgiving. I was so terrible that I prayed for boys, not girls, because I didn't want a girl like me to raise. God heard my prayer and gave me two boys.

For years I lived with guilt over how I treated my mother. I knew God knew how I acted as a teenager and I prayed for forgiveness. It took me a long time to accept God's forgiveness and to forgive myself. 

"Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good," (1 Peter 2:2-3 NIV). 

Thank goodness I grew up and out of my terrible teens. Studying the Word helped me restore my relationship with my mother, I'm sure. I'm so thankful for the years of a good relationship with my mother. God is good.

May your relationships all be healed in Christ Jesus so you no longer feel guilty or sad. Blessings.

Always With You

When our youngest son was about 11 years old we moved from the country to town, away from being neighbors to my parents. We decided to get him a kitten to help him with the loss of the farm life. The gray and white kitten was adorable and they quickly became best friends. I have photo albums full of pictures of them together. He was responsible for feeding Allie. Allie soon became a member of the family.

Allie was a compassionate cat. He could always sense when our mood was such that we needed some loving and he would hop up on our lap and make himself comfortable. His long hair was always needing petting. There was something about his warmth on our laps that was comforting. There was love going both ways. Allie was always there when we needed him.

That's the way with God, too. He is always there whenever we need Him.

"Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age," (Matthew 28:20b NIV).

Allie favorite place to hide was on top of our kitchen cupboards. Allie liked high places. He never had trouble jumping to the high spots without disturbing anything that was up there. But he could give you a start when you walked by unsuspecting.

May your days be filled with high places of love. May you always know that God is there for you.